First Combined FEMA Training Catalogue Goes On-Line; Print Version On The Way  

Release Date: March 8, 2004
Release Number: HQ-04-027

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has issued its first catalogue combining courses for both the National Fire Academy (NFA) and Emergency Management Institute (EMI). The 272-page catalogue for FY 2005 is available on-line immediately; paper copies will be available later this month.

“The training offered at the National Emergency Training Center, while always important, has taken on increased urgency since the attacks of 9/11,” said Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response. “This new catalogue demonstrates the breadth of this training and the support given to it by President Bush and Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge.”

The catalogue includes a description of some 264 courses and the class schedule for NFA, and a description of courses at EMI; the schedule for EMI is posted on-line. This year marks the first time the two institutions have issued a joint catalogue. Both training facilities are located at the National Emergency Training Center, in Emmitsburg, Md. The courses offered there range in length from three days to two weeks and are appropriate for all members of the emergency management and firefighting community. The catalogue includes two courses being offering for the first time: Command and General Staff Functions in the Incident Command System and Partnering for Fire Defense and Emergency Services Planning

“We are pleased to offer this combined catalogue for the first time,” said U.S. Fire Administrator R. David Paulison. “It speaks to the fact that in the world we face today, first responders from across the spectrum must have opportunities to hone their craft, improve their skills and share with each other technical approaches. We strongly encourage firefighters and emergency management officials to take advantage of these offerings.”

There is no tuition charge for these courses. Lodging is also free and transportation costs are reimbursed. Students pay only for a small fee for meals.

The online catalogue can be accessed at: www.usfa.fema.gov. Printed copies will be available after April 1. Printed copies can be ordered through the Web site at: www.usfa.fema.gov/applications/publications or by calling 1-800-561-3356.

The first semester application period opens May 1 and closes June 30, 2004. First semester includes classes scheduled October 1, 2004 through March 31, 2005. Application guidelines can be found in the catalogue.

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Monday, 08-Mar-2004 11:54:41